Avoiding Water Backup And Preventing Water Damage

Taking proper measures to avoid water backup as a homeowner is a smart decision when thinking long term. Water backup can lead to water damage in your home, which can be a huge inconvenience.

Water backup happens when there’s a stoppage in the flow of water making it unable to continue down it’s designed path and is then forced to go in the reverse direction.

When a pipe collapses, water backup occurs since the water is forced to take an alternate route. Also, when there’s a blockage, the water is again forced to go in the reverse direction thus creating water backup.

Water damage from a burst water pipe can cost $5,000 – $70,000 or more with an average insurance claim costing $15,000.

There will be a hefty bill to pay if you don’t take precautions against this overlooked problem.

Avoiding Water Backup

Here are some tips you can perform to prevent water backup in your home.

Position landscaping and irrigation so water flows away from the foundation.

Install backflow valves and standpipes at all basement drain locations to prevent backflow of sanitary sewer water, this includes toilets and sinks.

Run your sump pump every couple months and clean it annually before the rainy season.

Inspect gutter capacity after twenty minutes of heavy rain and if water overflows the gutters be sure to install additional downspouts.

Extend your downspouts to be at least ten feet away from your home.

Maintain your gutters and downspouts by keeping them clear of leaves and debris while keeping up on any necessary repairs.

When Water Backup Occurs

If water backup occurs make sure to dry all wet belongings to prevent mold growth.

Also, you should get rid of any standing water because it can lead to more unwanted damage.

Prevention Is Key

The preventative measures in Avoiding Water Backup can help you avoid water backup in your home and minimize the amount of damage should it occur. However, a significant amount of water backup occurrences are not always preventable, so it’s crucial to do what you can.

Water backup is more likely to occur in the basement and can harm water tanks and heating systems. Most people are unaware some homeowner policies don’t supply coverage for water backup damage, but insurance protection can usually be added for the low cost of $25-$50 per year.

With nearly one million homes being ruined due to water damage a year, it’s important to take the measures necessary to avoid water backup so you can prevent your home from water damage that can set you back, not only with your daily activities but also in your wallet.

About The Author

Skylar Lewis is a die hard entrepreneur who is committed to providing massive value in whatever he does. Skylar has built Superior Restoration into a dominant force in Southern California through a constant growth mentality. You’re either growing, or you’re dying. Follow Superior Restorations on Google + to get the latest water, fire, and mold damage prevention tips.

A natural disaster can strike your home at any time. You need to take steps to protect your home and family from natural disasters. This involves some planning and investments. You can do several things to prepare your home and family for a natural disaster before it happens.